This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2025-2026 VCU Bulletin. Courses that expose students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning may be added and notification of additional program approvals may be received prior to finalization. General education program content is also subject to change. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
The Department of Computer Science at Virginia Commonwealth University is a dynamic community of scholars dedicated to advancing the field of computer science through innovative research and education. The department offers extensive opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing them to tackle the next generation of technological challenges.
The computer science department provides programs leading to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in computer science. It also offers an accelerated path from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree for qualified students.
For undergraduate students, the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science offers a range of specialized courses that prepare them for careers in fields such as software engineering, data science, cybersecurity and more. In contrast, the Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science at Virginia Commonwealth University provides a flexible curriculum that combines a strong foundation in computer science with opportunities for interdisciplinary study.
For graduate students, both thesis and non-thesis master of science programs are offered, as well as a standalone Ph.D. in Computer Science program, which began in Fall 2021. These programs provide research opportunities across key areas including computer systems, medical informatics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering and bioinformatics. Students may also engage in interdisciplinary studies through collaborations with other departments at VCU.
Refer to the department’s website for more information.
Preetam Ghosh, Ph.D.
Professor and chair
Caroline Budwell, Ph.D.
Associate professor and undergraduate program director
Kostadin Damevski, Ph.D.
Associate professor and graduate program director
Students who complete the requirements for this degree will receive a Master of Science in Information Systems Security.
Students who complete the requirements for this degree will receive a Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science.
Students who complete the requirements for this degree will receive a Master of Science in Computer Science.
Students who complete the requirements for this degree will receive a Master of Science in Data Science.